Forensic Files

Talking Dateline: Malice

Dateline NBC

  • Mar 4, 2026
  • 22:50
  • Full Episode
Synchronizing the audio with the ad breaks and transcriptThis takes a brief moment, please wait.

<p>With Blayne on assignment, Lester Holt talks with Senior Producer Allison Orr and Producer Ann Preisman about Blayne’s latest episode, "Malice." Just over a year into his new marriage, Jake Embert was found dead from what would quickly be ruled a self-inflicted gunshot. Jake’s family did not accept the ruling, believing he had been killed by his new wife. They hired a private investigator who presented his findings to authorities, resulting in Jake’s manner of death being changed to homicide. Susan Embert was charged with her husband’s murder and eventually found guilty and sentenced to life. Allison and Ann discuss the credentials needed to become a coroner and play an extra clip of Blayne confronting Susan about a Facebook post she made in the days following her husband’s death. Plus, Lester and Ann answer your questions from social media. </p> <p>This episode discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for more resources.</p> <p>Listen to the full episode “Malice” on Apple: <a href="https://apple.co/3PcKoLI" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://apple.co/3PcKoLI</a><br> Listen on Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6vQ1hNSjEf6GUKiNTvEfV0" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://open.spotify.com/episode/6vQ1hNSjEf6GUKiNTvEfV0</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

Brief Summary

The episode discusses the Jake Embert murder case and Susan Embert's trials, featuring insights from producers and an interview with Susan.

Key points

  • The Fight for Justice. The Embert family embarks on a long journey to uncover the truth behind Jake's death.
  • The Investigation Delayed. The justice system's delays impact the Embert family's quest for answers over the years.
  • Blaine's Milestone Interview. Blaine Alexander conducts her first jailhouse interview with Susan Embert, accused of murder.
  • Susan's Facebook Post. A revealing Facebook post by Susan Embert raises questions about her state of mind after Jake's death.
  • Jake's Son's Future. Jake's son, Will, pursues a career in law enforcement to ensure justice is served.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

More from Dateline NBC

Solve the Crime

Read a real case one clue at a time, then see how your call held up against the investigators.

Start a Case

Join Team Forensic Files

Regular case drops, breaking crime news, and podcast premieres, straight to your inbox.

or

Forgot your password?